Nicolas Pépé

Nicolas Pépé started his football education playing as a goalkeeper for local Parisian side Solitaire Paris Est. He remained in goal until he was 14 years old before transitioning to an outfield role.

This unique early experience gave him a distinct understanding of the game. He later developed his attacking skills at Stade Poitevin FC before joining the professional ranks with Angers.

Nicolas Pépé began his football career remarkably as a goalkeeper before transitioning to an outfield role at age 14. He honed his skills in the lower divisions of French football, eventually signing with Angers in 2013. His early performances demonstrated raw potential, leading to a productive loan spell at Orléans during the 2015-2016 season.

In 2017, Pépé joined Lille, where his career truly skyrocketed under the guidance of Marcelo Bielsa and Christophe Galtier. Operating primarily on the right wing, he enjoyed a spectacular 2018-2019 season, scoring 22 league goals and finishing only behind Kylian Mbappé in the scoring charts. His phenomenal form made him one of Europe's most sought-after attackers.

In August 2019, Arsenal signed Pépé for a club-record fee. During his time in North London, he showcased moments of brilliance, helping the club win the FA Cup in 2020. Seeking more consistent playing time, he later spent a season on loan at Nice, followed by a permanent move to Turkish side Trabzonspor for the 2023-2024 campaign.

In the summer of 2024, Pépé joined La Liga side Villarreal, where he has found a new lease on life. He has become a consistent attacking threat in Spain, logging crucial goals and assists that recently earned him a contract extension until 2028. His experience and technical quality have made him a leader in the Villarreal dressing room.

Internationally, Pépé has been a stalwart for the Ivory Coast since his debut in 2016. He played a massive role in their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations triumph on home soil. At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he achieved historic success, scoring a brace against Curaçao to send the Ivory Coast to their first-ever knockout stage.

Nicolas Pépé was born and raised in the Île-de-France region, where he developed his love for football on the streets of Paris. He remains deeply connected to his French-Ivorian heritage, taking immense pride in representing his parents' homeland on the international stage. He is known to be very close to his family, often bringing them to his matches to share in his successes.

Away from the intense spotlight of professional football, Pépé enjoys a relatively private personal life. He is in a long-term relationship and is a proud father, dedicating his off-time to his children. His move to Spain has allowed his family to enjoy a warm, relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.

Outside of his athletic commitments, Pépé is an avid fan of basketball and contemporary fashion. He is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly focusing on initiatives that provide sports equipment and facilities to youth in disadvantaged areas of both Paris and Abidjan.